The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in Hyderabad advises against the use of protein supplements for body mass building. Their revised Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) emphasize the importance of a balanced diet in preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The guidelines recommend limiting salt intake, reducing sugar and ultra-processed foods, and understanding food labels to make informed choices.
The DGIs, developed by a multidisciplinary committee led by Dr. Hemalatha R, Director of ICMR-NIN, have undergone extensive scientific review and include 17 guidelines. The NIN emphasizes the potential risks associated with excessive protein intake, including bone mineral loss and kidney damage. They recommend a balanced diet that provides not more than 45 percent calories from cereals and millet, 15 percent from pulses, beans, and meat, and the remaining from nuts, vegetables, fruits, and milk.
The guidelines acknowledge the limited availability and high cost of pulses and meat in India, which can lead to a heavy reliance on cereals and a poor intake of essential nutrients. They caution that insufficient nutrient intake can disrupt metabolism and increase the risk of insulin resistance and associated disorders from a young age.
According to the central health monitoring body, around 56.4 percent of the total disease burden in India is due to unhealthy diets. The guidelines emphasize that healthy diets and physical activity can reduce coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension (HTN) and prevent up to 80 percent of type 2 diabetes. They conclude that adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce premature deaths.
